Holiday

Valley's 3 biggest New Year's Eve bashes

Scottsdale's Ultimate Block Party

This outdoor event includes more than 75,000 square feet of space in Craftsman Court, which encompasses three bars: Dos Gringos, Acme Bar and Grill, and Upper Deck Sports Grill.

Headliners are the Dan Band and Gin Blossoms, the ubiquitous Valley favorites who had a slew of catchy hits in the mid-'90s.

About 5,000 people are expected.

"You can walk in and out of the bars and around on the street," said Dustin Booth, an event coordinator for Dos Gringos. "It really embraces the festival style, and you don't have to put your drink down at the door. It's all one big event."

Insight Fiesta Bowl Block Party

The Valley's biggest and most event-filled New Year's bash is back with a few upgrades. The biggest difference is that the fun will start an hour later and run an hour later than usual, from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

There also will be an additional fireworks show, making for a total of four, each of which will run longer than the previous one. Another addition: Metro light rail will be running for free until 3 a.m., helping partiers get home safely.

Be prepared for Mill Avenue bars to charge steep covers. You can avoid the expense and the lines by partying at one of six beer gardens.

Arena-rocking Styx will play a 45-minute set, followed by the countdown to midnight.

Details: 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Mill Avenue and Tempe Beach Park. $15 at Fry's Food and Drug with a VIP card, $20 at the box office and the door. 480-350-0900, fiestabowl.org.

Westgate City Center

Rock of Ages is the theme for the third annual 21-and-older outdoor bash, with Valley favorites Metalhead headlining the entertainment. Unlike past years, most of Westgate's restaurants and bars will remain open all night.

Reserve tables at Kabuki Japanese Restaurant or Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville Cafe for special deals and great views of the party. The Shout! House package includes dinner, a souvenir glass and reserved seating for the dueling-piano show.

Guests can count down to midnight with a colorful water show on the fountain inspired by Las Vegas' Bellagio casino.